(11/26) Adams County Habitat for Humanity is celebrating two milestones—its 25th anniversary and the approach of its 35th house constructed by volunteers—as the non-profit organization launches its annual fundraising campaign.

"The vision of those who founded our affiliate in 1988 has blossomed into a thriving non-profit program that has now put roofs over the heads of 33 Adams County families," said President C.L. "Pete" Ricker. "As we near completion of our latest duplex home on Fifth Street, Gettysburg, we are very excited to see that number rise to 35 families."

"We are very grateful to the community for their support," continued Ricker, "because Habitat families quite often fall into gaps not served by traditional low-income programs. Habitat families are hard-working families who simply need a ‘hand up’—not a handout."

Over the past 25 years, there are literally hundreds of people to thank for the success of Adams County Habitat: hundreds of volunteers, board members, donors, partner church congregations, and the very families served. Partner families who qualify for home ownership invest their own "sweat equity" by helping to build homes. Then they repay a mortgage to Habitat, financed at no interest. These funds, infused by donations, are reinvested to help serve additional families.

"We ask Adams Countians to think about what the word ‘home’ means to them," said Vice President Bill Tyson. "It’s very rewarding to see deserving families become home owners for the first time in their lives."

Recent comments from Adams County Habitat homeowners have included:

• "It’s the logical next step in providing my kids with everything I had growing up—a yard to play in, a good neighborhood, everything. It’s life-changing."
• "We are so thankful to Habitat for Humanity for all you have given us. We are so happy with our new home."
• "Your group is so committed to building homes for low-income families. Your board and volunteers are such professional and caring community members. You will never know how much you have touched our lives."
• "We are very excited and blessed to have this opportunity. It feels wonderful to be a homeowner and it feels great to give back to such a magical organization that has done so much for so many people," referring to the "sweat equity" hours that require each family to work on either their own home or the home of another Habitat family.

In 2012, more than 300 volunteers spent nearly 1,500 hours working on Adams County houses. Hundreds of additional hours are donated to the non-profit, ecumenical Christian organization every year through the work of board members. The organization is run entirely by volunteers.

Donations from individuals account for a large percentage of the organization’s operating fund, primarily used to purchase building supplies for the construction of homes. Adams County Habitat also relies on corporate donations, funding from covenant churches, and grants, in addition to mortgage payments from Habitat partner families. All donations are tax-deductible; Adams County Habitat for Humanity is a 501 (c)(3).

Donations may be sent to: Adams County Habitat for Humanity, P.O. Box 3561, Gettysburg PA 17325. To make an online donation, log onto the organization’s website at www.habitatadamspa.org/donate.

The mission of Adams County Habitat for Humanity is: Seeking to put God’s love into action, Habitat for Humanity brings people together to build homes, communities and hope. The organization’s vision is: A world where everyone has a decent place to live.

For more information, check www.habitatadamspa.org, or call 717-334-5557.